Ahead of all the upcoming red-and-green holiday parties, Dallasites got to don their crimson best for the fourth annual Rhapsody in Red gala benefiting Bryan's House.
The scarlet shindig attracted philanthropic-minded young professionals to Belo Mansion for a night of dancing, dining, and doing good, as they raised funds for the nonprofit that serves children with medical or developmental needs and their families by providing specialized childcare, respite care, and social services.
Ladies turned up in red-hot gowns while most of the gentleman opted for ruby ties and pocket squares, except for a few brave souls who finally had an excuse to rock that maroon suit. Rhapsody in Red co-founder Austin Eudaly was one such sartorial standout in his Christmas plaid jacket, with co-founder Zach Sherwood in a matching bowtie.
The Bachelor's Sean Lowe was back to emcee the event, which he has supported with his wife, Catherine Lowe, since its beginning. He introduced Rhapsody in Red executive director Darian Thomas, who in turn brought Bryan's House CEO Abigail Erickson to the stage to speak about the nonprofit's message.
Marisol Cross, whose son found educational and emotional support through Bryan's House, delivered an emotional speech outlining the important work the group does for children with developmental delays.
Following a seated dinner, guests — including Jennifer and Kevin Kirksey, Patrick R. Van Ooteghem, Nate Fischer, Ashley Bates, Annie Pennington, John Matye, Brittnee Wooldridge, Ashley Mahon, Katarina Vidovic, Kat Aliaba, Ashley Vasicek, David McAdams, Niki Landry, Chelsea Dora, Erica and Chris Duncan, Adelaide and Jimmy Freeman, Alisa Oppliger, Saadia Sheikh, Kayla Gibbs, and Kameron Douglas — hit the dance floor as The Jordan Kahn Orchestra played old favorites and top hits.
Up for grabs that night were several silent auction items put together by auction chair Tara Stevenson, including beauty packages, SMU football tickets, and shopping sprees. The night's big prize was the raffle for a four-person getaway to Crested Butte, Colorado.
Rhapsody in Red aims to strengthen local nonprofits that address poverty, and solve complex issues at the root level by providing funding, strategic guidance, and volunteers. All funds raised this year help Bryan's House impact more than 2,200 lives on an annual basis.
Kat Allen, Rhonda Jenkins, Rachel Sipperley
